West Midlands
The centrally located West Midlands region concentrates such diversity in all terms that is not to be found anywhere else in England. Appropriately, is it often called the 'Heart of England'. The second biggest city in the country, Birmingham, and the closely located aglomerations are a major centre in the economical life and transportation system in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, they provide plenty of entertainment opportunities, starting with theatre and cultural sites and finishing with huge shopping malls and a vibrant nightlife. A totally different experience is offered by the numerous historical towns located all around. The birthplace of Shakespeare, Stratford-on-Avon, the Medieval pottery production centre, Stoke-on-Trent, the magnificent Hereford with its Norman Cathedral and 'the loveliest town in England' - Ludlow, all give the tourist an insight into England as it used to be prior to the modern post-industrial era. Tranquility seakers will not be disappointed either - the amazingly quiet and picturesque villages and fields, strewn with farms, await to be discovered. The valuable flora and fauna of West Midlands have been preserved in its National Park, as well as five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.